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# Construction begins on new Co-op store in Kesgrave
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/construction-begins-on-new-co-op-store-in-kesgrave/
- Published: 2025-12-18T17:51:53.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T14:54:59.000Z
- Description: Work has begun to build a new East of England Co-op Food store in Kesgrave, set to open in late 2026.
- Author: Matt Stott
- Tags: News, Business, Openings & Closures, #article, East of England Co-op, #Import 2026-03-16 14:43

**Why it matters:** The store will extend food retail choice in Grange Farm, an area that has been growing with new housing, while creating jobs.

**The details:** The 3,000 sq. ft. store will be built in Hartree Way. Work started earlier this week with Elliston, Steady & Hawes, a construction firm based in Great Blakenham, appointed to manage the project.

The Co-op will recruit customer service assistants and team managers late next year, though the number of positions was not disclosed.

![Group of people](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1766077960-co-op-kesgrave-work-starts-1.jpg)

Stakeholders and contractors gather on-site as construction work gets underway (Ashley Pickering/Anglia Picture Agency)

**What they're saying:** Stuart McDonald, chief property & strategy officer at the East of England Co-op, said: "We're delighted work is beginning to bring the town of Kesgrave a first-class food store. We're proud to be investing in Kesgrave and creating a fresh, modern and sustainable food store designed to meet the needs of the fantastic community it will serve."

**For context:** The East of England Co-op is independent of the national Co-op Group and is owned by its members. The co-operative has operated for over 155 years and has a turnover of over £385m.

**The bottom line:** Work to build a new 3,000 sq. ft. Co-op store in Grange Farm, Kesgrave has started this week, with a planned opening of late 2026.

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